SAN FRANCISCO — Heading into tonight’s Nuggets-Warriors game (I’m in San Fran, where the Nuggets will have shoot-around), I caught up with one of the fellows calling the game tonight on TNT … Steve Kerr (who actually KNOWS MICHAEL JORDAN!!)

Kerr answered some Qs about your Denver Nuggets (the game is tonight at 8:30 p.m. MTN on TNT).

BH: Though the majority of their games have been on the road, what do you make of Denver’s start to the season?

SK: “I think Denver’s start has been somewhat disappointing. After leading the NBA in scoring a year ago, the Nuggets are averaging five fewer points per game this season. Their offense struggles in the half court, they don’t shoot the 3-ball well and to this point the turnovers have been a big problem. But they’ve had a tough schedule and I expect they’ll turn things around.”

BH: The Nuggets start the stable Kosta Koufos at center and bring JaVale McGee off the bench. A lot of fans like McGee more because of his highlight reel plays. What’s your take on Denver’s strategy in the low-post?

SK: “Koufos gives Denver a more consistent player in the starting lineup. He’s not flashy, but he does a nice job and he understands his role. McGee is good in stretches but still has a lot to learn. Coming off the bench allows McGee to play against second-unit players, and his athleticism gives the Nuggets a boost when the starters go out.”

BH: People give the blanket statement that Andre Iguodala is good at defense. But in your eyes, what are some specific things he does defensively to be so effective?

SK: “The biggest thing with Iguodala is that he can guard multiple positions because he’s so versatile. He’s strong, laterally quick, and he has good size, so he can match up with almost anyone on the court. And in the NBA, if you don’t have someone to guard guys like LeBron, Kobe, Carmelo and Pierce you’re in trouble.”
BH: The Warriors and Nuggets have seen each other a bunch lately. Can you describe how you see these two teams matching up?

SK: “It seems crazy that the two teams will meet three times in 20 days. That rarely happens in the NBA. But the first two games have gone right down to the wire, so obviously this is a really good matchup. I am looking forward to the Lawson/Curry battle. Lawson got the best of Curry last week, and his defensive pressure was a factor in the game. Curry will be motivated to come back and have a better game Thursday. If Curry can play well and the Warriors can keep Faried off the boards, I would give Golden State a slight edge playing at home.”